Quick Links

fundamentals Release pressure. Loosen the handle and slightly compress the saw's arms against a benchtop to install the blade. continued Installing a coping-saw blade yoke pins equally to avoid twisting the blade, and fe-tighten the handle aftetward. Not all coping saws are created equal. I prefer an all-steel saw with some heft. For example, Woodcraft sells a sturdy model for $13.99 (product #141403). Cheaper, lightweight models tend to have weaker frames and poorly attached handles. Low-quality blades also can be a problem. Some brands are not as sharp as others; some break easily. I only use Stanley blades, which are available at Ace Hardware. Coping-saw blades are made for different purposes and materials. The fewer the teeth per inch, the coarser the cut. Available sizes include 10, 15, 20, and 24 tpi. For most work, I use a 15-tpi blade. Make sure the blade pins sit securely in their notches before tightening the handle. The author mounts the blade to cut on the pull stroke. Guide the saw with both hands for straight cuts, smooth curves To install a blade, compress the saw's anns to close the distance between them and slide the ends of the blade into the yokes. Be sure to seat the small pins securely on the ends of the blade, or the tension in the frame can launch the blade like a slingshot. I was taught to install the blade so that it would cut on the push stroke, and I still use it this way for making coped cuts. But I've found I have more control making other cuts on the pull stroke, as with a Japanese saw. In this orientation, the blade is less apt to bind, which can cause it to break or allow the blade to spring out of the saw. Most woodworkers use a coping saw for cutting curves on a board's edge. These cuts can be for .. CUT ON THE PULL STROKE Use two hands. Grasp the saw by the handle and front arm, and cut with the blade's full length. Keep your strokes parallel to the bench top. 92 Fl WOODWORKI1\G Orienting the teeth toward the handle will keep the blade in tension through the cutting stroke. Drawings: Michael Pekovich